# Motor Trend Magazine Review of Build Your Own Electric Vehicle - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2008/10/motor-trend-magazine-review-of-build-your-own-electric-vehicle/ - Published: 2008-10-14T19:48:00-04:00 - Author: greenlivingguy ## Nice review of the book from Motor Trend Magazine ### Here’s a segment: After President Eisenhower launched the space race in the late 1950s, a national sentiment emerged. Capable, average Americans believed they could home-build just about anything. This feeling demonstrated ingenuity and independence. It showcased creativity despite technological advancement. All men needed were good instructions and the right tools. This belief fostered a DIY culture that encouraged innovation in various sectors. Motor Trend Magazine highlighted these cultural shifts often. Companies like Zenith, Heathkit, and the Radio Shack franchise championed this movement. They offered build-it-yourself kits for radios, TVs, alarm systems, and more. This created a thriving marketplace. It matched the era’s excitement for science and technology. The kits featured clear instructions and accessible components. They empowered individuals to take charge. People dove into homemade projects. These projects met personal needs and boosted the national narrative of self-reliance. This was crucial during a time of geopolitical tension. Motor Trend Magazine highlighted the importance of self-reliance in this context. ![Motor Trend Magazine Review. Group of four people working together in a garage on an electric vehicle project, focused on building their own electric vehicle.]( https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/image.png?resize =400%2C300&ssl=1) Hands-on DIY project: Building your own electric vehicle, showcasing teamwork and creativity. ### A Necessary Item Of course, these items would be necessary fitments for Cold War era bomb shelters, as they represented not only practicality but also the psychological need for security in a time of tension and fear. This reflected a society that was preparing for the uncertainties of the future, bracing itself against potential threats while reinforcing a sense of resilience among its citizens. At the same time, it embraced the possibilities of innovation at home, as often discussed in Motor Trend Magazine, where advancements in technology and design were showcased, highlighting the creativity and ingenuity that flourished even in the shadow of anxiety. This duality of fear and hope manifested in everyday life, ultimately shaping the culture and identity of a generation. ### What they like about this edition This second edition, augmented with numerous additions and updates from its 1993 first run, is published by McGraw Hill. It reflects the [evolving landscape of energy technologies and sustainability](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/03/evolve-golf-tee-for-a-sustainable-game/) practices over the decades. [Seth Leitman and Bob Brant authored](https://greenlivingguy.com/green-living-appearances-book-tour-consulting-donations/author-seth-leitman/) the comprehensive 329-page paperback. It serves as an essential resource for both enthusiasts and professionals in the field. Leitman’s extensive background in electricity adds significant credibility to the work, much like the detailed explorations found in Motor Trend Magazine. He once worked for the New [York State Power Authority](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/12/nycha-electric-truck-unveiling-courtesy-of-the-new-york-power-authority/) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. ![Build your own electric vehicle 2nd edition](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy. com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/IMG_8834.jpeg?resize=319%2C400&quality=52&ssl=1) Motor Trend Magazine Review He transitions to entrepreneurship by owning the ETS Energy Store. This change allows him to focus on organic, natural, and sustainable products. These products make a positive impact on the environment. Co-author Bob Brant brings rich knowledge and experience from his career. For example, he wrote the first edition himself. He drew on his work with significant NASA projects, including the pioneering electrically- powered Lunar Rover. This illustrates the innovative spirit behind their collaboration on this updated edition. Together, they share insights that inform readers about past advancements. Moreover, they inspire future developments, a topic frequently covered in Motor Trend Magazine. Their focus, therefore, is on [renewable energy and sustainable living](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/09/leitman-green-sustainability-storytelling-unpacked/) practices. ### Motor Trend Magazine was Very Sincere About Me One cannot doubt the sincerity of the authors or question their desire to help move drivers toward (what the authors believe to be) a superior species of transportation. Their vision is not merely theoretical; it’s deeply rooted in a passion for sustainability and innovation. This passion is palpable throughout the book. The pages are filled with presumably well-researched and accurate charts, diagrams, and equations. These tools are essential for aspiring eco-friendly mechanics, akin to the in-depth analyses found in Motor Trend Magazine. Need to know the torque requirements for a 1987 [Ford Ranger](http://www.automobilemag.com/ford/ranger/) at different speeds and inclines? Well, you do if you’re going to convert one to electric power. The necessary data is conveniently located on page 123. This eliminates the guesswork often involved in such transformations. Additionally, a comprehensive diagram on page 218 simplifies the intricate process. It provides clarity to what can often seem overwhelming. The entire wiring diagram for an EV is included. Moreover, sources for power controllers, battery systems, instrumentation, and the dozens of other components you’ll need fill the book’s final pages. These, in fact, are crucial for converting a carbon- swilling gas guzzler to a [Blue Bird friendly electric](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/05/more-than-100-blue-bird-electric-school-buses-have-been-ordered-so-far-cummins-electric-drive/) vehicle. Thus, by ensuring that you’re well-equipped for the journey ahead, as Motor Trend Magazine suggests, you’ll be on the right track. Additionally, somebody hand me some wire cutters ’cause I’m ready to get started with this exciting venture [towards a greener future.](https://greenlivingguy.com/2010/12/advanced-vehicles-a-leap-towards-greener-future/) ### Further Positives It also has a directory in the back, providing a valuable resource for readers to easily locate and access various [converters](https://www.motortrend.com/news/build-your-own-electric-vehicle-book) that can assist them in their electric vehicle projects. This comprehensive listing not only simplifies the process of finding the right tools and equipment but also enhances the overall learning experience by connecting enthusiasts with trusted suppliers and solutions in the field of electric vehicle conversions. ## Conclusion Thank you, Motor Trend Magazine, for your insightful reviews and extensive coverage of the automotive world. Your dedication to providing thorough analysis and reporting on the latest trends and innovations has greatly enriched the knowledge of car enthusiasts and buyers alike. The way you dissect each vehicle’s performance in real-world scenarios, combined with your expert interviews and detailed comparisons, offers an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand the complexities of modern automobiles. Finally, we appreciate the effort you put into each article, helping us to make informed decisions about vehicles we might choose to drive in the future. Your commitment not only inspires confidence but also fosters a community of informed consumers who share a passion for the ever-evolving automotive landscape. ## Comments ### By: Sustaino \- - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2008/10/motor-trend-magazine-review-of-build-your-own-electric-vehicle/#comment-221 - Published: 2008-10-18T00:55:00-04:00 Interesting site dedicated to LEV’s! What is your point of view on Tesla’s Roadster? Regards ### By: Joanne - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2008/10/motor-trend-magazine-review-of-build-your-own-electric-vehicle/#comment-220 - Published: 2008-10-23T10:02:00-04:00 My son and husband put an electric engine into a 1969 Plymouth Valiant two years ago. The car in used daily in Apex , North Carolina by my son to commute to work at Cisco.